The super-majority was required because of a proposed tax levy increase of 5.33 percent, but the budget was approved by only 54 percent of voters.

The board of education will now deliberate and decide whether to resubmit a budget (the same or a revised version) for a re-vote on June 18, or to adopt a contingent budget.

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Kim Dyce Faucette said:

"Without a doubt, this has been a challenging budget year for districts across the state. North Syracuse felt the impact and was forced to make some very difficult decisions in its budget deliberations. We know that our voters had to do the same thing today...this was not an easy decision for anyone. Of course we are disappointed that the proposed budget was rejected. But we will take this feedback, reconvene and move forward toward a successful budget that provides the best education possible for our students."

Readers left their thoughts on the results in the comments section. Here's a sampling of what they had to say.

From tollie59: There are reasonable ways to keep the budget and tax rates down, but the current board is simply a rubber stamp for this empire building administration. Sacrifices have been made by students and teachers, but it appears those at the top are doing better than ever. Their strategy seems to be to see how big an increase they can ramrod through by organizing huge numbers of support from non taxpaying constituents.

Sure, it's easy to vote for more programs and spending if you have no skin in the game. Congratulations to all North Syracuse CSD taxpayers - we are willing to pay for good quality education - but not the extravagance of this board and administration.

From Cicero Grad: With 65,000 people in the district WHY is it that only 3600 people bothered to vote & have their voices be heard. Especially when the district employs 1500 people & you know that they were the yes votes. People, get off your couches and be heard - these types of tax increases are unacceptable. Don't be "strong-armed" by the district threats of no sports, etc. If the kids want to play sports, ask parents to pay a fee for it. Most would be happy to pay a fee rather than have ridiculous tax increases continue. WAKE UP!!!

From Tom: To propose a 5.5 percent school tax increase during these tough and uncertain economic times is poor judgment on the part of the budget director and board. Especially given that the three largest school expenses (employee wages, employee benefits and employee pensions) were not even on the table for any cuts or changes. This year my employer informed it's employees that we would not be getting any raises due to costs and lack of revenue and this is on the heels of a 2012 increase to the employee portion of our healthcare premiums. In 1998 this employer shifted from traditional pension plan to 401K plan. CNS needs to look at some of these options as well.

What do you think about the budget vote results? Leave your comments below.